Integration of physical assessment within a pathophysiology course for pharmacy.

Abstract

To determine first-year pharmacy students' analysis, confidence, and knowledge of patient physical assessment integrated within a pathophysiology curriculum. A prospective quasi-experimental study using validated pre- and post-surveys and follow-up examinations was conducted to objectively assess the confidence and knowledge of pharmacy students' physical assessment skills. Students' perceived ability to perform physical assessment techniques improved. Topic mastery was demonstrated by a final comprehensive examination with a composite student class score of 83%. First-year pharmacy students demonstrated acquisition of patient physical assessment skills when integrated into a pathophysiology course.